By Lori Newell
Overview
Many people have experienced what is often called the "winter blues." Feeling depressed, having a lack of energy and not wanting to be involved in activities can occur during times of the year when there are fewer sunlight hours. While it is normal to feel this way once in a while, there are cases where these feelings can affect your ability to function. When it reaches this level you may be diagnosed as having seasonal affective disorder.
Identification
Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is recognized by the National Institutes of Health as a type of depression. It tends to occur during the late fall and winter when there is less exposure to sunlight. However, some people also develop this condition at other times of the year. See the Resources section for a link.
Theories/Speculation
The exact cause of seasonal affective disorder is not known. It is believed that exposure to bright light can change the chemical composition in the brain. There are theories that the lack of light may change the levels of hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain. See any of the links below for more information.
Symptoms
Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include excessive tiredness, depression, frequent crying spells, decreased sleep and activity levels, loss of interest in activities and relationships, overeating and weight gain. In severe cases patients may be suicidal.
Phototherapy
If you are living with SAD, you may want to try exposure to fluorescent light. According to the American Psychiatry Association light therapy seems to significantly improve depression associated with seasonal affective disorder. Light treatment should be used daily in the morning and evening for best results. See the Resources section for a link below.
Other Treatments
According to a study in the American Journal of Psychiatry, antidepressants along with light therapy seems to be helpful in managing the symptoms of SAD. Getting outdoors whenever possible and brightening your work environment can also help with this condition.
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